More supply chain inspections needed

Companies must improve safety checks on products in their supply chains, the EU consumer commissioner has said.

Meglena Kuneva was speaking after another recall by US toy manufacturer Mattel. Fears over lead paint prompted the firm to recall 12,000 "Go Diego Go Animal Rescue Boat" toys sold in the UK, Ireland and Canada. Mattel said one of its Chinese suppliers had subcontracted painting of the toys to another supplier who used an unauthorised paint.

"Dangerous goods should not be allowed to pass unchecked through the supply chain to reach shop floors or be sold to parents for children's use at home," said Kuneva. "My central message is already very clear - to face up to the emerging challenges of managing global supply chains, several key actors [major manufacturers] are going to have to significantly raise their game."

Kuneva praised the "intensive work" carried out by Mattel to improve checks. The company gave the EU advance warning of the recall.

Kuneva added that, following the EU's recent review of safety inspections, specific actions to take would be discussed at a meeting of the EU competitiveness council on 22 November.